Being a mum is full of love, joy, and laughter. But let’s be honest, it doesn’t half test your patience too. And when there’s other factors at play, the balancing of responsibilities, managing a household, and caring for children can often leave us feeling overwhelmed.
I know that’s definitely the case for me and my stress often exhibits itself internally which means I can find myself irritable, struggling to sleep, racing mind but often put it down to something else.
Well, here are some effective strategies I came across to help us ease those moments of stress and find a spot of calm in our busy lives.
Prioritise your own self-care
This should come as no surprise that it’s at the top of my list as it’s the thing that goes first when I’m stressed and so I have to work so hard to bring back. We often put our own needs last, but self-care is essential for maintaining emotional and mental well-being. Set aside time each day for activities that bring you joy, whether it’s reading a book, taking a relaxing bath, or going for a walk. Remember, taking care of yourself enables you to take better care of your family.
Don’t know where to start? Have a read of Self-care ideas: 40 ways to feel good in motherhood
Establish a great support system
It takes a village to raise a child the saying goes. I recall fondly growing up with all my cousins and aunties, it was a village and one you felt you could lean on. Today, lives are even busier and work/relationships have taken people to new locations far away from family so this becomes even more important.
Reach out to friends, family members, or other mums who can offer understanding and empathy. Building a support network creates a safe space to share your feelings and gain perspective. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Related blog post: Find your tribe and watch yourself grow as a new mum
Try doing some mindfulness or relaxation technique
I have such a racing mind. It can cause all sorts of distress especially when you feel that you can never switch off. That’s where I’ve found these types of activities so helpful.
Mindfulness and relaxation techniques can help you stay present and manage stress. Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and yoga are effective ways to centre yourself and find a sense of calm amidst the chaos.
Considering yoga? Here are my tips on finding a great class: How to find the right yoga class for you
Delegate it and simplify it
I found it pretty mind blowing how the skills I use every day at work don’t show up as much as they should in my home life. As if the two are so separate. But bringing home that side of me can reduce stress.
Remember it’s okay to delegate tasks and responsibilities. Supermum is overrated. Share household chores with your partner, involve older children in age-appropriate tasks, or consider outsourcing certain tasks when possible. Simplifying your daily routine can reduce the feeling of being constantly overwhelmed.
Talking of supermum, what about being a well-being mum instead? Forget being Supermum, what about well-being mum and how to handle stress instead
Set yourself realistic expectations
Perfection is an unattainable goal, and setting unrealistic expectations only adds unnecessary pressure. Embrace imperfections and acknowledge that it’s okay to have days that are less than perfect.
Amen to that! I try to do to much at times, and end up not achieving much at all. Step by step is the game, and the more realistic you can be the better the outcome. It’s good to vision board absolutely but in our day to day just know it won’t happen overnight.
Oh perfectionism, here’s something I wrote on that: Perfectionism: a blessing or a curse?
Manage your time better
You know how I mentioned bringing the work you home? That can definitely apply to time management too.
Organise your day by creating a schedule that includes dedicated time for work, family, and yourself. Prioritise tasks based on importance and break them down into manageable steps.
It seems mad to think you should schedule me time but if you don’t who will?
Get some hobbies or interests
Think about things that bring you joy or that you’ve always wanted to do. Do that.
Engaging in activities you’re passionate about can be a wonderful way to alleviate stress. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or playing a musical instrument, hobbies provide an outlet for creativity and relaxation.
Don’t try to think of picking up the thing that sounds good but you won’t stick at. Try to keep something going for at least 6 months.
Keep active
Burn away the stress or exercise the hell of it out! Regular physical activity is not only beneficial for your physical health but also for reducing stress and boosting mood. Incorporate exercise into your routine, whether it’s a workout class, a walk, or dancing around the living room with your children.
It doesn’t have to involve money! That’s key. We often jump to google to find a class but jump to YouTube instead. Or your music playlist, and have fun while getting in a workout. Aren’t the best ones the ones you didn’t plan?
Walking is particularly amazing and here’s why: 5 reasons why mums need to get outdoors
Practice gratitude
Focusing on the positive aspects of your life can shift your perspective and reduce stress. Keep a gratitude journal to remind yourself of the things you’re thankful for, no matter how small they may seem.
It can be challenging to find time for this one so whether it’s written or verbally said out loud to yourself, or even in those stressful moments – it goes a long way.
Seek professional help if you need to
Sometimes stress takes over. If you find that stress is becoming overwhelming and affecting your daily life, consider seeking support from a therapist or counsellor. Talking to a professional can provide you with coping strategies tailored to your situation.
When I first had my daughter, I sought out support and was signposted to Mindful Mums – a group for new mums with tips and techniques to manage motherhood. It’s a programme as part of the mental health and well-being charity, Mind.
Here’s what I learned: How Mindful Mums can help you in the early stages of motherhood
So what next?
Don’t wait for the stress to overflow your bucket, get ahead by reading blogs like these and finding tips on managing it. By prioritising self-care, building a support network, and adopting stress-easing strategies, mums can find a balance that allows them to embrace the tranquillity within the chaos.
Remember, taking care of your own well-being is an essential part of being the best mum you can be. Learn more self-care tips by checking out another blog post here: Simple self-care ideas that don’t cost a thing